I think that Oscar Wilde believes that there are multiple purposes of art, one of those purposes being an outlet for the artist. Wilde states that "the artist can express everything" (9) through art. Another purpose for art is to connect with the viewers. Art provokes thought and influences the viewer's perspective in a variety of ways. Art is more than what is painted on the canvas. It is many layers deep. Wilde warns that viewers who "go beneath the surface" (9) or "read the symbol" (9) should do so at their own discretion.
Art has the capability to change an opinion on a small scale or it can change the whole way of thinking for a viewer. According to Wilde's beliefs, art reflects on who the person is morally. It reveals those who are "corrupt" (8) or "cultivated" (8) in the mind. What the meaning becomes is entirely up to the beholder's own thoughts and morals. Wilde comments that "diversity of opinion about a work of art shows that the work is new, complex, and vital" (9).
I see we had similar thoughts on the subject. I however noticed that we did have a different point of view as to what he meant when he said that art has both surface and symbol. I agree with your opinions and your paragraph has me wondering what he really did mean... Wilde is a little tricky to decode! I feel he could have meant many things by what he said, but guessing is part of the fun right?
ReplyDeleteHaley, we both translated the preface in a similar way! That's pretty neat. Considering I basically wrote the same paragraph just in a different way, I agree with you completely! I do like what you said about the layers though. Your example of a painted canvas was so perfect! I can definitely tell you put effort into interpreting Wilde's thoughts on art - well done!
ReplyDeleteIs it very interesting to read a completely different view of the preface. It was well written but I think when he said "all who go beneath the surface do so at their peril" he ment that beauty is only beauty and art cannot express any morals beneath. Thats why he said "art is useless." because if there is nothing behind art then it is just beautiful and doesn't do anything.
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